Integrated Fridge/freezer insurance

Deborah9

I damaged my integrated fridge/freezer called the insurance company today to be told because it is integrated it comes under my buildings (not contents) insurance so therefore there is no accidental damage. It is seen as part of the building. I did point out there is a difference between 'built-in' and 'integrated' but they were having none of it - anyone else come across this - I can't believe it - any advice would be very welcome

dacouch

Would you leave them or take them with you when you move house?

Quentin

As they have refused your claim then your option is to raise a complaint.


Then if you are unhappy with their reply (or they ignore you for 8 weeks) you can escalate to the FOS for their adjudication at no cost to you

Deborah9

We'll probably leave in fact but I could take it with me it is not fixed it just sitting in a Cabinet with doors afixed to the front. My point is it is an appliance not a fixture so really would expect to see it under contents insurance

Deborah9

Yes thanks - I just wondered if anyone had had the same experience & if there was a way around it as can't believe what they are saying

dacouch

Read this

http://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/publications/ombudsman-news/30/30-ins.htm

Quentin

Deborah9 wrote: »

... if there was a way around it as can't believe what they are saying

The only way round their decision is as advised in #3

Deborah9

Dacouch. Thank you very much that article is very interesting - I will be speaking to my insurance company again tomorrow & going to the ombudsman if it is still in dispute

This is the first time I have used a forum - really appreciate the comments from everyone

dacouch

Did you damage it while cleaning it by any chance?

Deborah9

Absolutely. Was scraping the ice off the roof (with the proper tool) and hit the gas

dacouch

Most policies exclude damage down whilst in the process of cleaning although defrosting a machine is arguably general maintainence.

I would suggest you avoid using the word "Cleaning" when dealing with your Insurers and just refer to it as defrosting it or annual maintaining